Obituary of Giuliano D'Andrea

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Giuliano D’Andrea (“D”), beloved husband, father, nonno, and friend. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on April 10th, 2023 at the age of 84.  Born on December 10, 1938 in Civitanova del Sannio (Italy), he was the son of the late Francesco and Beatrice D’Andrea.  

After immigrating to the US with his family as a teenager in 1956,  Giuliano completed his final year of high school at Harding High in CT, went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from University of Bridgeport, and his Masters and PhD in Mechanics from RPI. Subsequently, Giuliano built an extremely successful career spanning 62 years with Benet Labs/ Watervliet Arsenal, including several tours overseas in both Italy and Japan as Field Assistant Science & Technology Advisor (FAST-SA) supporting our soldiers, retiring in 2021.  He also served as an adjunct professor at RPI and Union College for many years.

While “D” had many hobbies and interests: Collegiate soccer (1959 NCAA Division 1 National Finalists), tennis (mixed doubles club champs), downhill skiing (where he and Bonnie met), gardening  (his lawn always perfectly green and full of colorful flowers), dedication to the catholic church and Comboni Missionaries, and travel around the world (too many places to mention)… his biggest passion was his family.  His love for us was unwavering.  His biggest joys came from our times together, big or small; family trips around the world, holiday gatherings near or far, helping with various home improvement projects, or coaching soccer and assisting with homework at the kitchen table after a long day at work.  Over the past 13 years, caring for and playing with his grandchildren became his new devotion … he never passed up a moment to be with them, and to give them each all of the energy and enthusiasm that he had.  They loved him unconditionally.  He always treated his friends like family, and created lifelong bonds with so many of his acquaintances.  He was an intellect, but also a very deep and spiritual man who loved life, grateful for all that he has been given.  Modest yet curious.  A hard worker and a fighter.   A beautiful conversationalist and a great teacher of life.  Someone who always made others feel at ease.  “I Love D”.  A phrase we hear all too often… and we couldn’t agree more.

Giuliano is survived by his wife of 56 years; Bonnie D’Andrea, daughter Gina (Michael Toft) D’Andrea, son Giuliano Thomas (Jamie) D’Andrea, his siblings Peter D’Andrea, Domenick (Nancy) D’Andrea, Carmine (Marcello) Ursini, Fernanda (Angelo) D’Agnone,  Michele (George, predeceased) Romano, and his brother-in-law Bob (Cindy) Weiss. He is also survived by his loving grandchildren Eryn, Michael, Giulia, and Tommy.

An intimate service for his immediate family was held Monday evening to honor Giuliano’s life at Catricala Funeral Home, officiated by Father Thomas Hayes.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Giuliano's honor to the ALS Association to help find a cure.  https://donate.als.org/fundraiser/4596498

As “D” would say: Grazie Mille